Members of research and promotion boards are nominated by industry and appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. They serve a vital role in overseeing board operations. It is USDA's policy that every board’s membership:
- Be open to all individuals without regard based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital or familial status, political beliefs, parental status, receipt of public assistance, or protected genetic information.
- Reflect the diversity of individuals served by the programs, including women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
Additionally, AMS policy is that the diversity of the board should reflect the diversity of their industries in experience of members, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that will bring different perspectives and ideas to the table. When submitting nominations, the industry must consider the diversity of the population served and the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the members to serve a diverse population.
Visit the specific board pages to find out more information about the nomination process.